Sara Jo Dennis, 77, of Springfield, Illinois, died Friday, February 20, 2026, at her home.

She was born April 6, 1948, in Jacksonville, the daughter of Everett and Maryann (Gladhart) Evans. Sara married Terry N. Dennis on April 8, 1967, at Faith Lutheran Church in Jacksonville. He preceded her in death on March 27, 2022.

Sara is survived by her children, Candace "Candie" (John) Jones of Girard and Eric Dennis (companion Cathy Doyle) of Springfield; grandchildren, Michael Andrew Jones (companion Nikki McLean), Amber (Andrew) Bolinger, and Robert Jones; great grandson, Samuel Bolinger; siblings, John (Gayle) Evans, Donald "Don" Evans, and Roxanne Thompson, all of Jacksonville; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of fifty-four years; and her daughter, Andrea Dennis.

Sara grew up in Winchester and graduated from Winchester High School in 1966. After she married Terry, she was a stay-at-home mom to her children. She later worked for Cater-Vend in Jacksonville and then for Illinois College in food service.

Sara was of Christian Faith. She was an avid reader and enjoyed gardening and working in the yard. But what she loved most was visiting with family and friends, especially her grandchildren, whether it was on the phone or in person.

Cremation will be performed and there will be a graveside service 11am Friday, February 27, at Winchester City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be left online at buchanancody.com.